Baby boomers and diabetes

Nature’s Pharmacy
“Nutritional supplements may help reverse deficiencies that have developed as a result
of diabetes, protect your body from diabetes-related damage, improve your metabolism
so you have more energy, and help stabilize blood sugar.”
Dr. Rebecca Winsome, Naturopathic Doctor
Time-honored herbal therapies have gained new respect as the public has come to
recognize the value of plant-based supplements as safe, natural and effective agents for
a variety of health challenges. Alternative medicine is gaining a foothold with at least 75
medical schools- among them Harvard, Yale, Columbia, Johns Hopkins, Tufts and
Stanford- now offering courses in alternative therapies.
The Herbal Medicine Cabinet

#1 Fenugreek – Ancient Spice and Potent Weapon Against Diabetes
Fenugreek appears to work by slowing the rapid absorption of sugars and improving the
utilization of sugar once it is absorbed. The active ingredient in Fenugreek is a special
soluble fiber along with the alkaloid, trigonelline. Researchers reported that Fenugreek
in the diet significantly reduced fasting blood sugar and improved glucose intolerance.
This finding indicates a marked improvement in insulin sensitivity.
#2 Cinnamon Extracts Tame Insulin Resistance
More than a decade ago, scientific studies found that compounds in Cinnamon made fat
cel s much more responsive to insulin, the hormone that regulates sugar metabolism
and thus controls the level of glucose in the blood. Researchers found that the study
volunteers who were randomly assigned to receive Cinnamon Extract had fasting glucose
#3 - Bitter Melon Tames Blood Sugar Ups and Downs
A frustrating challenge of control ing diabetes is managing the daily ups and downs to
keep blood sugar on an even keel. Bitter Melon, also known as Momordica Charantia, is
common in Asia and has long been used as a way to normalize blood sugar levels. The
blood sugar-lowering action of the juice or an extract of Bitter Melon has been clearly
established in several studies. Bitter Melon has several compounds with confirmed
antidiabetic properties and strong glucose-regulating effects.
#4 - Gymnema Sylvestre – Cornerstone of Herbal Diabetic Treatment
Gymnema Sylvestre is perhaps the most powerful herbal agent for improving blood
sugar control. “One of the cornerstones of herbal treatment is Gymnema Sylvestre, an
Indian herb,” says Dr. Rebecca Winsome. Human studies have demonstrated that
Gymnema Sylvestre has therapeutic value for both type 1 and 2 diabetes. It does not
cause low blood sugar and does not affect people whose blood sugar is normal.
#5 – Vanadyl Sulfate Combats Insulin Resistance
Vanadyl sulfate is the biologically active form of vanadium, a trace mineral that mimics
the action of the hormone insulin. Studies show that vanadyl is very effective in
normalizing blood sugar levels and control ing conditions such as insulin resistance.
#6 – Bilberry – Protect and Defend Against Health Complications
Bilberry is widely used as a possible preventive treatment for complications of diabetes.
This extract affects many health problems-not the least of which is blood sugar
imbalances. Bilberry also improves night vision, strengthens capillaries, reduces blood
clotting, and has antioxidant action. Research, done mostly in Italy, has also uncovered
bilberry's potential for treating retinal problems from poor blood circulation, diabetes-
The modern diet high in sugars and refined carbohydrates is also virtually devoid of
antioxidants, other types of vitamins, minerals and other micronutrients.” These
nutrients play pivotal roles in properly metabolizing all carbohydrates. Restoring these
nutrients can play a major role in control ing glucose and insulin levels and in slowing
and reversing the disease process. Indeed, many studies have shown that the addition
of these nutrients can often normalize glucose function in diabetics.” 1 Burton Berkson, M.D.
Diabetic Strategy
Herbs can't cure diabetes, but a number of them may provide alternative therapy when
used in conjunction with diet, exercise and medication.
Consult your health professional for guidance in using nutritional and herbal supplements to help manage your diabetes.

1. Syndrome X: The Complete Nutritional Program to Prevent and Reverse Insulin Resistance

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